The World Rally Championship (WRC) is preparing for a major transformation in 2027, with new regulations designed to reshape the sport’s future by making it more accessible and innovative. The FIA has been working intensively to finalize the WRC 2027 New Era Rules before the summer break, aiming to introduce a cost-effective, flexible platform that attracts new manufacturers and teams to rallying.
These changes will bring cars capped at €345,000 that deliver an impressive 300 horsepower, combining advanced engineering with controlled expenses. This move signifies a crucial step toward sustainability and competitiveness in the sport.
Technical Innovations and Design Flexibility for New Rally Cars
The WRC27 vehicles will feature a space frame chassis coupled with Rally2 components, limiting expensive materials such as carbon fiber to keep the budget in check. Despite the cost cap, safety standards are set to improve, with the new cars expected to offer better protection than the current Rally1 models.
For the initial phase starting in 2027, Rally2 cars will continue competing alongside the WRC27 models, marking a transition period before Rally2 machinery is phased out completely. Teams and tuners are empowered to design their own chassis and develop unique body styles, opening the door for creative variation on the rally circuit.
Regulations Supporting Diverse Body Styles and Safety Enhancements
The FIA has approved a broad set of bodywork regulations, permitting a range of designs including saloons, hatchbacks, and custom builds. These new cars will be 20mm taller than the previous Rally1 cars, maintain a similar width, and weigh 1230kg, matching the current Rally2 cars. Attention now turns to finalizing a new roll cage design, with stringent crash tests scheduled to verify safety improvements.
FIA technical director Xavier Mestelan Pinon explained,
Everything is already set up; if you want to design a car, you have all the info. But as always with regulations, we work on the details all the time.
He added that dynamic side impact tests are expected to confirm the roll cage’s performance by the end of August, emphasizing enhanced safety compared to Rally2 vehicles. —Xavier Mestelan Pinon, FIA Technical Director
Powertrain Options and Manufacturer Perspectives
Initially, the WRC27 platform will utilize internal combustion engines, but discussions about introducing alternative powertrains are ongoing. The FIA is considering allowing manufacturers to use engines derived from production cars, expanding options beyond the current homologated turbocharged Rally2 engines.
Toyota is leading the way with its WRC27 concept, while M-Sport–Ford remains cautious, preferring to collaborate with a manufacturer partner before committing. Hyundai has voiced reservations, indicating it is not interested in cost-capped cars powered solely by conventional Rally2 engines. Hyundai’s technical director, Francois-Xavier Demaison, commented,
We will look at it if the rules are more open for the powertrain. A manufacturer like Hyundai needs more technology in the cars.
—Francois-Xavier Demaison, Hyundai Technical Director
Regarding the timeline for alternative powertrain decisions, FIA road sport director Emilia Abel noted,
The option is there, the regulations have the framework for it, but we haven’t made a final decision for it.
—Emilia Abel, FIA Road Sport Director
Anticipation and Potential Impact on Motorsport’s Future
The WRC 2027 New Era Rules offer a promising new chapter for rallying, focusing on affordability, innovation, and safety. This strategic shift may encourage a wider range of manufacturers and teams to join, fostering greater technological advancements within the sport. With important details still being finalized, the rally community eagerly awaits how these rules will influence competition and design creativity.
As the FIA progresses toward the 2027 deadline, the potential for increased diversity in car designs and engine technology could dramatically alter the rallying landscape, making the next era one of the most exciting transitions in motorsport history.
